Witness appeal launched after homophobic attack victim praised

Police are appealing for witnesses to a homophobic attack on a man who was praised by the First Minister for his response.

Blair Wilson posted a photo online of him smiling despite having blood running down his face following the assault.

He was attacked while walking on Main Street in his home town of Neilston, East Renfrewshire.

Police said a man shouted homophobic comments at him before approaching him and kicking and punching his face and body.

Nicola Sturgeon spoke about 0 Blair Wilson was attacked while walking down the street

the 21-year-old in a speech at Glasgow’s annual Pride celebrations on Saturday, praising him for speaking up “instead of cowering away”.

She said he demonstrated “dignity, courage and compassion”.

Now, police have issued an appeal for witnesses to the assault on June 29.

Theysaidthesuspectiswhite and slim with dyed blond hair. He was wearing a dark jacket and carrying a blue backpack with a green palm tree pattern.

Sergeant Nik Rossi at Giffnock Police Office said: “We have been carrying out extensive enquiries since the assault was reported including reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing local people. However, I am now appealing for anyone who may have been in the area, which would have been busy at the time and who has information.”